Suicide is a leading cause of death among college students, and prevention is a shared campus responsibility. Our goal is to ensure every student feels seen, heard, and valued, which is why we offer a one-hour training for students, faculty, and staff to recognize the warning signs of suicide, respond with empathy and concern, and refer students to resources. Every Warhawk plays a role in prevention.
Each spring, UW-Whitewater holds the Out of the Darkness campus walk for suicide prevention, hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and UWW’s Active Minds student group. Join fellow Warhawks to help save lives and bring hope to others.
We all have a role to play in supporting mental health on our campus. Research shows that students are most likely to turn to peers or trusted faculty and staff when they are in distress.
Do your part to assist others who may be having thoughts of suicide. Recognize, Respond, Refer is a free suicide prevention training for UW-Whitewater students, faculty, and staff. This one-hour, self-paced Canvas course provides tools to recognize when someone may be struggling, respond with empathy and confidence, and refer them to appropriate support resources.
By completing this 60-minute training, you help create a stronger, more compassionate Warhawk community.
Most people experiencing suicidal thoughts show outward signs that may alert you that they are in distress. While some individuals might not show any signs, it’s important to watch for common warning signs.
Once you are in a private, comfortable place, initiate a check-in. Name the specific warning signs you’ve recognized and ask permission to check in further. Tips for responding:
For referrals to be helpful, they should ideally be responsive to student needs (as understood by the student), be collaborative and not coercive, and be responsive to student beliefs and identities.
Does not require prompt action, but intervention is still recommended; can wait at least until the next day.
Example: A student is struggling with academics and depression but does not have thoughts of suicide.
Next steps:
Requiring prompt action; may turn into an emergency if not addressed quickly; needs to be addressed today.
Example: A student states that they are currently experiencing thoughts of suicide.
Next steps:
It is unclear how urgent the situation is due to lack of information (e.g., student declines checking in) or confusing information.
Examples: Student states that they are “fine,” but exhibits multiple warning signs for suicide. Student reports having thoughts of suicide over the last few days, but currently are not having those thoughts.
Next steps:
An immediate threat to health or life; needs to be addressed immediately.
Example: A student has a plan for attempting suicide very soon. Or a student has ap lan and access to the means they would use to attempt suicide.
Next steps:
*Involving law enforcement is not an option that feels safe, comfortable, or accessible for everyone, and should be reserved for emergencies.